High Point seminars address independents, designers

High Point, N.C. — The High Point Market Authority is sponsoring six seminars for the fall market, geared toward independent retailers and interiors designers.

All of the seminars will be in Suites at Market Square, G-105.

Sunday, Oct. 18
10-11 a.m.Color Trends for a Global ScaleMark Woodman, Mix Magazine, Global Color Research
Woodman, who works with Global Color Research, a trend and design group for product specifications and trend publishing, will discuss the role color plays in our lives.

2-3 p.m.Where is the Profit in this Business?Mary Knackstedt, Knackstedt Inc.
Consultant and author Knackstedt will discuss what works and what doesn't as design businesses try to navigate a difficult market. Knackstedt, a frequent lecturer for businesses and universities, said the presentation "will focus on what makes the difference." A book signing will follow the presentation.

4-5 p.m.Trends through a Kaleidoscope of Design
Ellen Gefen
Gefen, producer of thehome.com and "High Point Market Live," will give designers a sneak peek at the latest and hottest trends, products, designers and companies at this fall's market.

Monday, Oct. 19
10-11 a.m.Leading and Living through Challenging TimesDusty Staub, Staub Leadership
Staub has served as a coach, author, consultant, therapist, facilitator, leadership expert and team developer for many organizations and specializes in dealing with the challenges of change and discontinuity. He also will discuss best practices for self-management and working with others during challenging times.

2-3 p.m.The 3/50 Project: Building Business from the Ground Up
Cinda Baxter
Baxter, a retail consultant and expert with independent retailers, will deliver the series keynote address. A former retailer, she is the founder of the 3/50 Project, which began during the economic downturn to give independent stores a boost. The idea is to encourage shoppers to visit three local stores per month and spend $50. Baxter says that every $100 spent in locally owned stores returns $68 dollars to the community, while the same amount spent in chains returns $43. Participants in the project can receive a flyer that can be printed and handed out to customers and other items including signage, logos and badges for Web site use.

4-5 p.m.Credit Collections and the Accounts Receivable Tool KitJonathan Burke, United Asset Group
Burke will address the best methods of recovering delinquent accounts in this ever-changing and challenging credit and collections market. Burke has a created a free tool kit that includes collection call scripts, in-house collection letters and advice from top collectors.